Volunteers: RSPCA in plea for drivers

The RSPCA is in desperate need of volunteer drivers who can spare a few hours a week to help animals in need in the East region.

They will join a team which moves long-stay animals to centres where they are more likely to find a new home.

This vital work will help to free up the time for officers and inspectors to concentrate on investigations of animal cruelty and the urgent rescues and collections of injured animals.

The volunteer drivers are needed to help with the East Region’s Networking Scheme which has been running for six months and is getting busier all the time.

A vehicle will be provided by the RSPCA, and although the role will mainly involve moving animals, it could also include moving other items such as food, blankets and equipment.

RSPCA regional manager Suzie Graham said: “This would be a very interesting and varied role, but clearly worthwhile in helping the many animals in our centres.

“If we can get enough volunteer drivers it means that our inspectors can be freed up to do vital rescue work on the ground. But the work of the volunteer drivers is just as vitally important.

“We will be providing training, which will include basic animal handling in case of emergencies and an online driving assessment.

“However the scheme is run in such a way that the onus is not on the driver to handle the animals unless an emergency arises.

“So many volunteers already do such a vast amount for the RSPCA and we really appreciate it. Without the work of volunteers, the RSPCA would not be able to help as many animals in need as it does. If there is anyone out there who could spare a few hours to help the RSPCA each week with our networking scheme, then we would urge them to get in touch.

“The networking trips can come at very short notice and animals may need to be moved urgently, also some trips can be very lengthy and cover a lot of mileage, so we are looking for reliable dedicated drivers that are willing to do this.

“We currently have networking vehicles based at our RSPCA Regional Headquarters in Peterborough and our RSPCA Block Fen Animal Centre in Wimblington, near March.”

The role would involve a minimum of five hours per week. Volunteer applicants should be an experienced driver and a clean driving licence is preferred.